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Rafale induction ceremony updates: The Indian Air Force (IAF) hosted a ceremony at the Ambala airbase to formally induct the first five Rafale fighter jets. Induction of these twin-engine modern fighters is being seen as a major boost to the IAF’s capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, his French counterpart Florence Parly and India’s top military brass attended the ceremony. This was the first induction of a new type of foreign-origin fighter jets by IAF since a batch of the Sukhois were delivered in the late 1990s. Rafale is a multi-role combat aircraft, which means, it can be deployed in various scenarios such as carrying out combat missions to achieve air superiority, close air support, in-depth strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship strikes and nuclear deterrence. Catch the updates here:
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The Rafale aircraft have been formally inducted into the Indian Air Force by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
We will ensure timely delivery of remaining 31 Rafales. Our partnership will be even more crucial in the post-COVID world.
Trust me, I know the Rafale is a powerful military aircraft as France uses it to protect its people.
We are fully committed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It takes a lot of confidence for India to depend on France and it takes a confidence for France to share the technology that is so important to our sovereignty.
Today is a stellar achievement for both our countries. We are writing a new chapter in India-France defence ties. The name ‘Rafale’ symbolises “incredible strength”. It also symbolises our ties.
The induction of Rafale into the IAF also represents the strong ties between India and France. The strategic ties between our two countries have also strengthened.
I am confident that induction of Rafales will revolutionise the Indian Air Force’s capabilities. With changing times, we need to stay prepared. National security remains a priority for this government.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that India’s Rafale deal with France is a “game changer”.
I have no doubt that the ‘Golden Arrows’ (17 Squadron) can dominate whenever and wherever deployed.
Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said, “This ceremony also marks the operational induction of this aircraft into the Indian Air Force.”
Bhadauria thanked the French Air Force for itssupport during the delivery of the aircraft in July.
This is a new chapter for IAF. This induction could not have happened at a more opportune time considering the security situation today.
